Okay, hear me out. I'm about to say something that might make some anime fans clutch their pearls. I'm talking about Mob Psycho 100. Specifically, the very first episode.
Don't get me wrong. I like Mob Psycho 100. It's weird, funny, and action-packed. But the first episode? I have some... complicated feelings.
The Expectations Game
Going into it, everyone raved about the animation. "It's so unique!" they cried. "The art style is revolutionary!" they yelled. Okay, okay, I get it. It's different. But did it immediately blow my mind?
Honestly? Not really. The deliberately rough look felt... a little jarring at first. It's like they were trying to be quirky. Was that just me?
I appreciate the artistry now, after seeing the entire series. But initial impression? Slightly underwhelmed. There, I said it!
Reigen Arataka: The MVP (Maybe?)
Let's talk about Reigen. Mob's mentor. His "spiritual advisor." His, let's be honest, exploiter. He's a con artist!
He's supposed to be hilarious. And he *is* funny. His "techniques" are ridiculously absurd. But... did anyone else feel a little uneasy watching him take advantage of Mob in that first episode?
Maybe it's just me. I'm probably overthinking it. But seeing this kid, who clearly has some emotional issues, get used by this adult... felt a little icky.
The Case of the Possessed Spirit
The main plot of the episode? Mob exorcising a spirit from a tunnel. Pretty standard stuff. We get a taste of Mob's powers. We see Reigen's "expertise."
The action is decent. The animation, while still a bit jarring, starts to grow on you. But honestly? It felt like a setup episode. A little slow. A bit of a tease for what's to come.
Maybe it needed to be! But compared to the insane battles later in the series, this felt tame. Like a warm-up before the real game begins.
Is it Just Me?
I know, I know. I'm probably in the minority here. Everyone loves the first episode of Mob Psycho 100. It's a classic! A masterpiece!
And it *is* good. I'm not saying it's bad. But it didn't instantly grab me. It took a few episodes for me to fully appreciate the show's genius.
Did anyone else feel this way? Or am I alone in my mildly controversial Mob Psycho 100 episode one opinion? Sound off in the comments! I want to know I'm not crazy!
Perhaps I just had unrealistic expectations. Maybe I was too hyped up. Whatever the reason, I think Episode 1 is a solid episode that prepares you for the show.
In conclusion, Mob Psycho 100 is still a fantastic show. I encourage you to watch. Just remember, it gets even better! And maybe, just maybe, prepare yourself for a slightly unusual art style.